Alcoholism and its effects...continued
DANGERS
Medication: People who take alcohol should be cognisant of
the dangers if they are on medication. Checks should be made as the two will
interact and the effects of the alcohol can be changed.
Young people: This group is drinking more alcohol and
drinking more often. They are the heavier drinking section of the population.
They start at about 12 years of age and by 15 most youngsters have tasted it.
12% of the 16-19 year olds show signs of alcohol dependency.
Health: One in four males admitted to hospital have an
alcohol-related problem. Deaths from liver disorders are ten times greater in
heavy drinkers than in non-drinkers.
Driving: 1 in 7 of all road deaths are alcohol related. It
is an offence to drive with more than 80mg per 100 ml of blood in the
system.
Family: 30% of child-abuse cases are alcohol related and 40%
of domestic violence also. Separated and divorced men seek solace above the
average drinker.
Crime: Research has shown that 30% of sexual offences are
alcohol related; burglaries 33%, street crimes 50%, pubs and clubs 85%, murders
65% and stabbings 75%.
Industry: Employers report that 75% of problems at work are
alcohol related as are 25% of workplace accidents. Up to 14 million working
days are lost annually through alcohol related problems
Accidents: Most drownings in unsupervised bodies of water
are alcohol related. Intoxicated persons tend to swim alone at night. Alcohol
induces them to stay in the water too long, leading to hypertension and
cardiovascular collapse.
Falls: Studies have revealed that at 100mg alcohol in 100 ml
blood, surging occurs when standing. Slower reflexes and diminsihed
co-ordination mean heavier falls.
Burns: Alcohol causes drowsiness. People can fall asleep
while smoking. The condition also impedes speedy escape.
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